Nonsense: Ferguson says that Mancini is wrong with his claim that teams roll over for Manchester United

‘There’s a lot of games I’ve watched this season when teams are playing City and I’ve said to myself: “Are they trying?” But of course they’re trying. The English game is the most honest in the world. They all do their best because that’s the nature of the English game.

‘So it’s absolute nonsense what he said. He was maybe looking for a bit of self-sympathy or something like that.’

With City involved in the FA Cup this weekend, United can increase their lead over Mancini’s team to 15 points with victory at the Britannia Stadium tomorrow.

Laidback: Ferguson's side can increase their lead over Mancini's side to 15 points with a win over Stoke

‘I think we’ve got some nice games to look forward to,’ added Ferguson. ‘It’s a good time of the season for us, no doubt about that. Our consistency has shown that.

‘The most important thing is having confidence and trust in my players, and that’s absolutely 100 per cent for me. I’ve got a good group of players, they always want to do their best.

‘They’ve shown great resilience throughout the season, in terms of coming back from being a goal down, time and time again. So stamina-wise and mentality-wise, it shows it’s the right one.”

Handshake: Mancini and Ferguson shake hands before Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 on Monday

Ferguson could not resist a dig at City and Chelsea for organising a post-season tour of America immediately before the England friendlies this summer, saying: ‘I wouldn’t ever do it, I must admit.

'That can only be because of whatever financial gains they’re getting out of it, obviously. They’re the two richest clubs too – they need the money!’

City manager Roberto Mancini admitted the timing was not ideal, saying: ‘When we finish the championship, we go for one week in New York and after they come back some players play in the Confederations Cup and qualification for World Cup. That is incredible.

‘Usually I don’t like this because when you finish the season, it is finished. But for me going to New York is like going on holiday!’

Horror: Sergio Aguero scores the winner against Manchester United as Phil Jones looks on in horror

VIDEO: Sir Alex Ferguson says that he has an issue with international friendlies